A Dream Journey Through Norway & Finland - Kaushik’s Thrillophiliia Review
Travel has always been a deep passion of mine, but this time, it was more than just another trip—it was an experience of a lifetime. My wife and I had long dreamed of exploring the pristine beauty of Scandinavia, and this time, we wanted to make it even more special by taking my parents along. When we decided on Norway and Finland, we knew we needed expert guidance to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. That’s where Thrillophilia came in, and I must say, they did not disappoint!
From the moment we landed in Helsinki to the breathtaking fjords of Norway, every moment of our journey was seamlessly planned. The itinerary was a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation—everything we had envisioned and more.
Helsinki – A Charming Start
Our journey began in Helsinki, Finland’s capital, where the crisp northern air and charming streets welcomed us. Despite its modernity, the city has a soul steeped in history and culture. We started our day with a stroll around Senate Square, taking in the grandeur of Helsinki Cathedral, followed by a visit to Market Square, where we indulged in fresh seafood and warm cinnamon buns—something my mother particularly loved.
The highlight of our Helsinki experience was the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. Reaching the fortress by ferry felt like stepping back in time. The vast open spaces, cobbled pathways, and ocean views made for a perfect afternoon outing, and my father, who loves history, was thoroughly engaged in learning about Finland’s past.
As the sun set, we enjoyed a peaceful dinner in a cosy restaurant, sipping on hot berry juice and reflecting on the adventure ahead.
Rovaniemi – Meeting Santa & Chasing the Northern Lights
The next morning, we boarded the train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. This was one of the things we were most excited about! The Santa Claus Express, as it’s popularly known, is an overnight train that takes you through the picturesque Finnish countryside, blanketed in snow. The journey itself was magical—watching the snowy landscapes glide by, feeling the train’s gentle rhythm, and simply enjoying uninterrupted time with family.
Arriving in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, felt like stepping into a Christmas fairytale. We visited Santa Claus Village, where we crossed the Arctic Circle, met Santa (yes, even as adults, it was a fun experience!), and sent postcards to loved ones with the special Arctic Circle stamp.
The Northern Lights hunt that night was the most mesmerizing experience of our trip. Wrapped in thick layers, we ventured into the wilderness, away from city lights. Just when we started doubting our luck, the sky exploded with streaks of green and purple. My wife and I stood in awe, hand in hand, while my parents, despite the cold, were utterly speechless. Seeing their joy and amazement was worth everything.
Norway’s Fjords – A Fairytale Come to Life
Leaving Finland behind, we made our way to Norway, a country that feels like it belongs in a dream. Our first stop was Oslo, where we explored the Viking Ship Museum and admired the art at Vigeland Sculpture Park. But as breathtaking as the city was, we were eager to experience Norway’s natural wonders.
One of the most unforgettable parts of our trip was the Sognefjord cruise. As our boat glided through the deep blue waters, surrounded by towering mountains and waterfalls cascading into the fjord, we felt an indescribable sense of peace. My mother, who usually prefers bustling cities, was absolutely in love with the tranquillity, while my father kept taking photos.
We also made a stop at Flåm, a tiny village known for its stunning railway journey, the Flåm Railway. The train ride through Norway’s most dramatic landscapes was like a moving postcard—snow-covered mountains, deep valleys, and winding rivers.
Lofoten – The Crown Jewel of Our Trip
Lofoten Islands left the deepest mark on our hearts. Staying in a remote fishing village, surrounded by towering peaks and the vast ocean, was an experience like no other. The scenic red cabins against the backdrop of mountains made us feel like we had stepped into a painting.
One evening, we simply sat by the shore, listening to the sound of the waves while watching the sunset. It was a moment of pure magic, the kind that makes you feel grateful for the ability to travel and witness such beauty with the people you love.
Final Thoughts & Suggestions
Our trip to Finland and Norway was everything we hoped for and more. It was seamlessly planned by Thrillophilia, allowing us to experience the best of both countries without the stress of logistics. The itinerary was well-paced, ensuring my parents could enjoy it without feeling rushed, and the accommodations were all in city centres, making public transport easily accessible.
There were moments when we had to follow up on certain details, but in the grand scheme of things, these were minor hiccups in an otherwise flawless experience.
Would I travel with Thrillophilia again? Absolutely! In fact, we’re already thinking about our next adventure.
To anyone dreaming of visiting Norway and Finland—just go for it. The beauty, the experiences, and the emotions you will carry back are beyond words.
Thank you, Thrillophilia, for making this dream trip possible!
Read More: Thrillophilia Finland Reviews